## Please use the Ruths Chris case (attached here) to answer the following questions.

Please assume:

*that you are a senior member of John Hannahs business development staff at Ruths Chris,

* that, contrary to what is stated on page 4 of the case, all restaurant growth paths (penetration, product development, market development, diversification) are open for discussion.

Answer the questions DIRECTLY, using evidence derived from course concepts/materials, not personal opinion.

Question 3.

a) Briefly model the competitive rivalry between Ruths Chris and 1-2 major strategic group international competitors. What are the drivers of competitive behavior and what is the likelihood of attack and response between Ruths Chris and its major competitors?

b) Recommend two countries that are best suited to Ruths Chris expansion using each element of Porters determinants of national advantage.

c) Briefly describe how consumer animosity might (or might not) affect your selection in b) above?

Question 4. Another senior member of the business development staff suggests that rather than importing Australian beef to use in countries that dont accept U.S. beef imports, Ruths Chris should just re-label the USDA beef as Australian beef and use it in any overseas locations that do not accept U.S. beef imports. The member believes that this is O.K. to do because it saves the company the time and expense of procuring and shipping the Australian beef, it opens more options for international expansion, and, we know that the U.S. beef is safe anyways.

a) What are the ethical dilemma and possible unethical behavior in this suggestion? Why do you believe this to be so?

b) Analyze the case in terms of the major factors affecting ethical or unethical behavior. Based on this analysis, do you believe that John Hannah would entertain and/or agree to this suggestion? Why or why not?

c) Finally, what corporate governance actions should the company take to improve/ensure the appropriate ethical behavior of its employees?

Course: Business policy and strategy